FAQs
On this page you’ll find answers to questions you may have about working with me. If you need further information, please get in touch.
How do you select projects?
When I review a new project, I’m looking to ensure that I can effectively edit/write the book and add value for the client. That means I’m only open to projects where:
The book is of a standard where it can be edited.
The book has been written by a human, not AI.
I can understand the content (i.e. the book is not highly technical).
The book aligns with the values of inclusivity, diversity and equality.
I work on books that I’m happy to have on my bookshelf, and I work with clients who are respectful and professional.
How long will it take?
Turnaround depends on the size of the project and my current workload. A book edit takes several weeks. Ghostwriting a book usually takes several months. Where possible, I try to return projects sooner than the deadline.
How much will it cost?
I cost each project individually, and my fee is based on:
The length of the material
The complexity of the material
The level of work required
The timescale
My rates for editorial and writing services are in line with those recommended by the UK’s Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading and the National Union of Journalists.
So that the client knows exactly what the project will cost in advance, I quote a flat fee for a proofreading, editing or writing project, based on a rate per 1,000 words.
Can we speak on the phone or on a video call?
I take all initial enquiries via email. If, having reviewed your enquiry, I think a call would be mutually beneficial, this can be arranged.
How does the project process work?
Once you’ve supplied me with the details of your project, I’ll review it. If I’m able to take on the work, I’ll provide a project quote.
If you decide to proceed, I’ll send you a project agreement to sign and return to me. This agreement will detail:
The exact nature of the service I’ll provide, including any limitations or areas for special consideration
The deadline for the project
The project fee and payment terms
Then I’ll issue an invoice for the project (see the following section, ‘How can I pay?’). Once payment has cleared, I’ll get to work.
On or before the deadline, I’ll send you the project deliverables, and you’re then free to come back to me with any questions.
How can I pay?
I accept payment by direct bank transfer.
For individuals in the UK, project fees of £500 or less are payable in full in advance. Payment for project fees exceeding £500 may be split into two instalments, the first paid upfront and the second on completion of the project.
For registered companies in the UK, the project fee is invoiced on completion of the project and that invoice is payable within 14 days.
For international clients, project fees are payable in full in advance. (This is because it’s next to impossible for me to recover unpaid fees outside the UK.)
What about confidentiality?
As standard, the details of my service(s) and the content of the client’s book are kept confidential. Should you wish, I will be happy to sign a confidentiality agreement (NDA).
Who retains copyright of written and edited material?
The client. Any writing or editing is carried out as a service for which you pay. Once I receive full payment for the project, I have no rights to the final text.
Do I have to acknowledge your contribution to my book?
Not at all. Some authors acknowledge my work; some – especially those who don’t want their publisher/agent/readers to know I exist – don’t acknowledge my work. I don’t mind either way.